This Week's Recipe Bundle: The Great Market Skillet
- Stewart & Lacey Wilson
- Sep 5
- 4 min read
Victoria Farmers Market is a treasure trove of fresh, local ingredients, and this week, we’re turning those beautiful seasonal picks into a delicious one-pan meal. Our featured recipe combines the richness of ground pork, the sweetness of butternut squash, and the crisp freshness of baby bok choy. Plus, with a hint of spice, pickled garlic, and a sprinkle of microgreens, you’ll have a satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is vibrant.
Fresh Ingredients from Crooked Pine Ranch, Big Gravy, Berger Farm, Papa's Nursery, and Sweet Sunrise Baked Goods!
What sets this dish apart is the availability of farm-fresh ingredients from the proud vendors at the Victoria Farmers Market. This week’s recipe showcases:
Ground Pork: Lean and flavorful, it's perfect for quick cooking.
Butternut Squash: Sweet and nutty, it's packed with nutrients.
Baby Bok Choy: Tender and crunchy, this green adds color and flavor.
Pickled Garlic: A bold complement that enhances the overall taste.
Microgreens: Tiny but mighty, offering nutrition and visual appeal.
Mustard Sauce: Tangy, fun flavor to add a kick to any dish.
Garlic Chives: The perfect garnish.
Dessert: Sweet Sunrise Baked Goods has the perfect treat to please anyone's taste buds.
These components not only support local agriculture but also guarantee freshness and superior taste.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Let’s dive deeper into why these ingredients make such a stellar combination both in terms of flavor and nutrition:
Ground Pork
Ground pork is a fantastic protein source. It's versatile, easy to cook, and works well in a variety of dishes. Compared to other meats, pork has lower saturated fat, making it an excellent option for health-conscious eaters. Additionally, it contains essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins that support energy levels and overall health.
Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a fall favorite and for good reason. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for eye health and immune system support. With its high fiber content, it also aids digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer—the naturally sweet flavor of butternut squash pairs perfectly with the spice from the pork.
Baby Bok Choy
Baby bok choy is a nutrient-dense leafy green that offers a wealth of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron. Its crispy texture and mild flavor make it suitable for stir-fries, salads, and many other dishes. Including baby bok choy in your meals promotes a well-rounded diet.
Recipe Overview
Now that we've established the health benefits, let's jump into the quick and easy recipe for Spicy Pork and Butternut Squash with Baby Bok Choy. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and caters to all taste buds.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
1 lb ground pork- Crooked Pine Ranch
2 cups diced butternut squash- Crooked Pine Ranch
2 cups baby bok choy, chopped- Crooked Pine Ranch
3 cloves pickled garlic, minced- Crooked Pine Ranch
2 tbsp mustard sauce- Big Gravy
2 tablespoons olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter
1 teaspoon pickled cayenne- Crooked Pine Ranch
Salt and pepper to taste
Microgreens for garnish- Berger Farm
Garlic Chives for garnish- Papa's Nursery
Dessert- Sweet Sunrise Baked Goods
Instructions
Preparation: Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the butternut squash into bite-sized cubes, chop the baby bok choy, and mince the pickled garlic.
Cook the Pork: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and pickled cayenne. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the mixture apart with a spatula until it is browned and cooked through.
Add the Squash: Once the pork is cooked, add the diced butternut squash to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender.
Introduce Bok Choy: Add the chopped baby bok choy and minced pickled garlic to the pan. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bok choy has wilted slightly.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the dish from heat and plate your delicious one-pan meal. Garnish with fresh microgreens for an extra touch of color and nutrition.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Cooking can be daunting, especially after a long day. Here are a few tips to streamline your process:
Meal Prep: Consider prepping your ingredients ahead of time. Chop the butternut squash and bok choy while you’re watching TV or on the weekend, so they’re ready to go during the week.
One-Pan Philosophy: Embrace the one-pan cooking style. It minimizes dishes and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of an extensive kitchen cleanup.
Flavorful Freezer: Make a large batch of the dish and freeze portions for a quick meal option during busy days. Just reheat and enjoy!
Local Market Support
Supporting local farms like Crooked Pine Ranch isn’t just beneficial for your meals; it’s vital for the economy and the community. Fresh ingredients bring flavor and nutrition to our tables while empowering local farmers. When you buy from the Victoria Farmers Market, you're investing in your health and helping to sustain local agriculture.
For more local produce and amazing recipes, check out the Victoria Farmers Market at Victoria Farmers Market. They’re open every week, so be sure to visit and pick up your fresh ingredients for this recipe and many others!
Enjoy Your Cooking Adventure
Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be a delightful experience that brings joy and nourishment. With our Spicy Pork and Butternut Squash with Baby Bok Choy recipe, you’ve got an inviting meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s a great way to explore seasonal ingredients while supporting local farmers.
Keep experimenting with flavors, and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding different spices or vegetables. Enjoy the happiness that comes from cooking and sharing good food!
Let’s celebrate this week’s excellent produce by whipping up something special. Happy cooking!
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